Public Health

The Department of Public Health delivers high quality, data driven public health services to our citizens, achieving objectives set forth by Healthy People 2030 through a set of public health programs staffed by highly qualified public health professionals practicing in a goal oriented, fiscally responsible department.

Mission Statement

Our mission at the City of El Paso Department of Public Health is to deliver exceptional services to improve the overall health and well-being of the citizens of El Paso and the region; based on the research and data analysis of a comprehensive community health assessment, addressing healthcare disparities in support of a high quality of life for all.

An Academic Health Department

The Department of Public Health (DPH) is proudly an academic health department and has multiple affiliations with local, state and national educational institutions to provide student internships, public health education and training, research, and services. The partnerships allow to reduce the gap between classroom learning and practice of public health strengthening public health workforce curriculum, evidence-based instruction, service delivery and quality of community interventions.

Updated COVID-19 Recommendations

The City of El Paso Department of Public Health is updating its recommendations for the prevention of respiratory diseases that include the most common respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, Influenza, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV), among others.

View Recommendations

Main Location & Hours

5115 El Paso Drive
El Paso, TX 79905

Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(Some programs offer services on Saturday)

Main Health Office Wait Times

Service Wait Time
Food Safety
undefined people in line now
undefined

Place Yourself In Line

Last Updated: 10:31 AM

Community Health Assessment (CHA)

The 2022 Community Health Assessment for El Paso County pinpoints key health issues, aiding the City of El Paso Department of Public Health in planning and improving residents' well-being through community collaboration.

The City of El Paso Department of Public Health (DPH) is committed to enhancing the well-being of adults in El Paso by using insights from the Community Health Assessment (CHA). By adhering to the high standards set by the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB), the DPH strives for excellence in public health practices, ensuring the best possible services for residents as their health needs evolve with age.

View Data Findings

Why is it crucial not to postpone healthcare services?

Half of the residents in El Paso delayed seeking healthcare because of money issues. Survey results found that individuals experienced this financial hardship with 16% not having insurance coverage and 77% having some level of insurance coverage.

For those who are uninsured, there are resources available to help you access healthcare services. HealthCare.gov is a great place to start for programs like Medicaid, CHIP, and to find options on affordable plans. In addition, local community health centers in El Paso offer services on a sliding fee scale, ensuring that everyone can receive care regardless of their financial situation. Our 211 call center can assist you with any questions.

There are important reasons why it’s critical not to postpone seeking healthcare services:

  • Early Detection and Treatment: Prompt medical attention can lead to the early detection of conditions that might otherwise progress into more severe and less treatable stages.
  • Lower Healthcare Costs: Addressing health concerns early can prevent the need for more expensive treatments or hospitalizations that could have been avoided with timely care.
  • Improved Quality of Life: Receiving timely care can help manage symptoms better, leading to an overall improved quality of life and the ability to maintain daily activities.
  • Prevention of Spread: In cases of contagious illnesses, seeking immediate care helps prevent the spread of disease to others in the community.
  • Mental Health Impact: Delaying healthcare can increase anxiety and stress, exacerbating both physical and mental health conditions. Seeking prompt care can provide reassurance and reduce the burden of worry.

77% Insured versus 16% uninsured

Based on 3,698 Community & Key Leader survey responses.

Care Costs & Urgency

The City of El Paso Department of Public Health is dedicated to empowering residents with the knowledge to make informed healthcare decisions. By understanding the costs and urgency associated with Primary Care Providers, Urgent Care, and Emergency Room visits, you can choose the most appropriate level of care, reducing unnecessary expenses and improving health outcomes.

Primary Care Provider $$

  • Average wait time of 10 minutes
  • Check-ups & Regular screenings
  • General medical & behavioral health questions
  • Questions or concerns about medications
  • Mild to moderate pain or discomfort
  • Management of a chronic condition
  • Mild Fevers
  • Cold & Flu Symptoms

Urgent Care $$$

  • Average wait time of 30 minutes
  • Minor cuts or wounds requiring prompt attention
  • Mild to moderate asthma symptoms
  • Moderate pain or discomfort
  • Animal or insect bites
  • Mild allergic reaction
  • Sprains or strains
  • Mild burns

Emergency Room $$$$

  • Average wait time of 4 hours
  • Significant difficulty breathing
  • Severe pain, especially in the chest or stomach
  • Possible drug overdose or poisoning
  • Babies needing immediate care
  • Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
  • Severe burns
  • Broken bones

Public Health Services

211 Call Center

Connects people to vital state, local, and organizational services.

Learn More

Dental Clinic

Provides eligible community members with the highest quality dental care.

Learn More

Education & Promotion

Provides educational presentations to the public on specific health related topics.

Learn More

Epidemiology

Rapidly detect and investigate communicable diseases and environmental health hazards.

Learn More

Flu

Learn about the Flu and how to get your flu vaccine.

Learn More

Food Inspection

View food scores and other related food inspection information.

Learn More

HIV Prevention & Surveillance

Testing, prevention, and other services related to HIV/AIDS.

Learn More

Laboratory

Detection, prevention, and protection from infectious foodborne and waterborne diseases, and public health emergencies.

Learn More

Medicaid Waiver

Assists the undeserved community with access to preventive health services.

Learn More

STD Preventive Medicine / Sexual Health Clinic

Provides clinical services for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of Sexually Transmitted Infections.

Learn More

TB Control

Controls the spread of Tuberculosis (TB) in El Paso County.

Learn More

Vaccination & Immunization

Immunize the uninsured population in El Paso, and surrounding areas in order to stop vaccine-preventable diseases.

Learn More

WIC Services

Education and monthly food package for Women, Infants, & Children.

Learn More